Kohler Power Systems will expand its generator product line to include an auxiliary power unit (APU) for the heavy-duty trucking industry.

The new Kohler 5-kilowatt APU will be available this summer and will offer trucking fleets, OEMs and truck owner/operators an air-cooled APU in the 5-kilowat, side-rail mounted size.

The self-contained engine is designed for less intrusion into the truck’s critical systems. Kohler said it designed its first APU to be one of the smallest and lightest air-cooled generators on the market at 27-in. wide, 26-in. high, 23-in. deep and weighing less than 350 pounds.

The Kohler APU (120-volt AC and 50-Amp DC power) is designed with a direct-drive alternator – a direct connection between the engine and alternator. By eliminating the alternator belts, Kohler said it offers increased reliability and reduced maintenance issues. The APU has an oil service interval of 500 hours to reduce standard maintenance costs.

“We’ve kept the truck owner’s needs in mind when designing this new APU,” said Chris Baldwin, director-Kohler Mobile Generator Business. “We are offering a space-saving, fuel efficient product that keeps installation and maintenance costs to a minimum. The Kohler APU provides the peace of mind that comes with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use, backed by an industry-leading distribution and service network of more than 500 Kohler distributors and dealers nationwide.”

The Kohler Advanced Digital Controller will come standard on the new APU, which allows the driver to start and stop the generator, and adjust the heating and cooling from inside the cab, the company said. The digital controller also features an LED screen that displays up to 13 operational conditions.

Other features include a custom sound-attenuated enclosure designed for quiet operation; and a full in-cab climate control system providing both heating and cooling output with a remote digital gauge for in-cab monitoring and operation.

For more information, visit www.kohlerpowersystems.com.